BRIDGETOWN — It should come as no surprise that Canadians have long enjoyed a love affair with the island of Barbados. It’s an affection that spans decades, and rightfully so. After all, what’s not to love?

Barbados isn’t just the birthplace of rum and celebrity singer Rihanna. It’s also home to some of the most idyllic unspoiled beaches in the world, set against tropical breezes and warm Bajan hospitality.

Travelweek recently co-hosted an exclusive fam with BTMI, with a select group of 10 travel professionals from across Canada joining Travelweek to experience an off-the-beaten-path itinerary – proving there is much more than sun and sand to love in this Caribbean gem.

The itinerary included a mix of physical challenges, learning experiences, culinary tastings and contributing to a local cause.

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Giving back to a community project was an integral and empowering element of the fam itinerary, adding a shine to everyone’s week.

A group visit to the Irving Wilson School in St. Michael permitted a first-hand tour and interactive moments with the children in their classroom settings. Santia Bradshaw, Deputy PM and MP, Minister of Transport, Works and Water Resources and MP for St Michael South East, and Armed Alleyne, Principal of Irving Wilson School, were on hand to greet everyone with a warm welcome and some kind words.

“I want to say a heartfelt thank you to you. It’s very touching that groups from abroad, coming to Barbados, take the opportunity to give, and it pleases me significantly that you’ve chosen a special needs institution. There’s so much to do here,” said Minister Bradshaw.

The group’s generous donations were very much appreciated and will go a long way towards the school’s construction of a new play park.

TRIED, TRUE & NEW

If the glorious beaches and balmy weather weren’t tempting enough, here are some hands-down FAM-tested highlights and favourites shared by the group.

• Newly opened zip lining and obstacle course challenge at Harrison’s Cave
• Friday night dinner and dancing at the Oistins open-air fish fry dinner, snorkelling and watching a sunset on a Catamaran
• Early Saturday morning breakfast and shopping at Brighton’s Farmers Market
• Tree planting at King George V recreational park
• Learning the history and process of rum making at a local distillery
• Walk/run in the Run Barbados race weekend